Chelsea are close to finalising personal terms with Enzo Maresca to become their new manager. The former Manchester City assistant coach joined Leicester City as their first team manager after their relegation, and helped them win the Championship at the first time of asking.
Now, he is close to agreeing a contract with Chelsea to replace Mauricio Pochettino, who left by mutual consent after only one season. Maresca has informed Leicester of his desire to go to Chelsea, and is now negotiating terms involving his backroom staff as well.
Chelsea in advanced talks with Enzo Maresca for managerial role
🚨🔵 Enzo Maresca has also informed Leicester City of his desire to sign for Chelsea.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 27, 2024
The agreement between Maresca and Chelsea on the contract is being sealed, no issues on salary.
Understand also Maresca’s staff is now also being discussed in club to club compensation talks. pic.twitter.com/nnqX5fsTfI
Kieran McKenna was one of the names mentioned in the list, after his season with Ipswich Town. However, he has been informed that he will not be given the job after the board was impressed with Enzo Maresca. Thomas Frank, Roberto De Zerbi and Vincent Kompany were also on the shortlist, but have now fallen behind in the race.
The board has reportedly been impressed by his knowledge of the current Chelsea squad and his ambition. As a result, they have chosen him as their pick to lead the team next season.
Quick 🧵 on Enzo Maresca from my observations watching Leicester this season.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) May 27, 2024
Preferred formation: 4-3-3. But it's more a 3-2-4-1 (or 3-2-5) in possession.
Utilises inverted full-backs and encourages No.8s to attack.🦊 pic.twitter.com/N6XBbhrVGM
Fans, however, are split on the decision, considering he has never managed in the Premier League. But with the board choosing an up-and-coming manager, Maresca’s experience with Manchester City sets him apart.
Mikel Arteta was once Pep Guardiola’s assistant at City, and has gone on to build an impressive squad with Arsenal. And perhaps the Chelsea sporting directors are hopeful of the same happening on the other side of London too.
